The Lucas County Sheriff's Office is one step closer to putting a new tool in the hands of its deputies. The department recently purchased 49 tasers and is gearing up to put them to use.

The sheriff's office has been without tasers for several years. Now that they have finally arrived, deputies were trained how to use them, when to use them, and how to do it safely.

"We need to put them through a stress course, a real-life situation, a real scenario. So we want to get their heart rate up. We want them to understand the severity of each situation they are going to walk into," explained Sgt. John Coleman.

The job of a sheriff's deputy can be unpredictable and dangerous. During any given shift, these men and women could be dealing with inmates, resolving disputes on the street, or responding to calls. In the next few weeks, they will be able to do it all with the help of a taser.

"Tasers aren't a substitute for deadly force anymore, so it will actually will help us. Instead of pulling our firearm, we can pull the taser, which is a little bit more safer," said Coleman.

For the last few weeks, deputies have been learning how to prepare for the 49 new units. The department even plans on doubling that number.

"We're planning to get more. I would say at least 50 more between 2014, 2015," said Sheriff John Tharp.

Mugshots of wanted criminals listed as "Fugitive of the Week." Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of a fugitive is encouraged to contact their local authorities.More >

Mugshots of wanted criminals listed as "Fugitive of the Week." Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of a fugitive is encouraged to contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED or local police department.More >